Surgical correction of human eye refractive errors by active composite artificial muscle implants

Abstract

Correction of eye refractive errors like presbyopia, hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism using either pre-tensioned or transcutaneously energized artificial muscle implants to change the axial length and anterior curvatures of the eye globe by bringing the retina/macula region to coincide with the focal point. The implants are scleral constrictor bands, segments or ribs for inducing accommodation of a few diopters, to correct refractive errors on demand or automatically. The implant comprises an active sphinctering band encircling the sclera, implanted under the conjunctiva and under the extraocular muscles to uniformly constrict the eye globe, to induce active temporary myopia (hyperopia) by increasing(decreasing) the length and curvature of the globe. Multiple and specially designed constrictor bands enable surgeons to correct astigmatism. The artificial muscles comprise materials such as composite magnetic shape memory (MSM), heat shrink, shape memory alloy-silicone rubber, electroactive ionic polymeric artificial muscles or etectrochemically contractile ionic polymers bands.

1. An apparatus for actively constricting and expanding the sclera of a human eye, the apparatus comprising:
 a band, said band comprising a heat shrink material, configured to be affixed around the sclera of the eye globe, said band comprising a means for actively inducing changes in an eye length and curvature of the cornea, said means for actively inducing comprising an automatic actuator. 
 
   
   
     2. The invention of  claim 1  wherein said means for inducing changes comprises a means for increasing said eye length. 
   
   
     3. The invention of  claim 1  wherein said means for inducing changes comprises a means for decreasing said eye length. 
   
   
     4. The invention of  claim 1  wherein said automatic actuator comprises a heat source.